Sheffield United: The Blades face an anxious wait in the transfer market as rival clubs bunker down

Berge, whose name also features on Napoli’s list of summer targets, is expected to leave before the end of the window following United’s relegation from the Premier League while Ramsdale’s value has soared following his call-up for England’s European Championship squad.

However neither has been the subject of a concrete bid, with both Mikel Arteta’s employers and the Italians convinced football’s bleak economic climate will eventually force United to compromise on price.

With that information being relayed back to Bramall Lane by the intermediary the board has hired to gauge market conditions, United are prepared for the uncertainty surrounding the two players’ futures to continue right up until the August deadline.

Having briefed new manager Slavisa Jokanovic on Berge’s situation - the Serb, whose reign begins on Thursday, is planning for life with the Norwegian - United would prefer to complete his sale as quickly as possible - using a chunk of the £35m they are demanding to improve their own squad.

Ramsdale’s position, however, is more nuanced. The goalkeeper has made it clear he wants to remain in South Yorkshire and work under Jokanovic as he tries to lead United back into the top-flight at the first time of asking.

But with senior figures behind the scenes estimating he is now worth £40m - more than double the £18.5m they paid to sign him from AFC Bournemouth 10 months ago - there is also an acknowledgement that his presence at St George’s Park, where England are preparing to face Germany on Tuesday, is bound to attract the attention of the country’s leading clubs.

The Steelphalt Academy graduate overcame a difficult start to life back with United, going on to be named as their player of the year thanks to a series of superb performances during the second-half of the season.

After initially being culled following a pre-tournament training camp, Ramsdale was summoned back into the England fold when former United loanee Dean Henderson withdrew through injury.